How to Make Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese

Old-fashioned macaroni and cheese is a perennial favorite for many families. Culinary experts, including mom, know that old-fashioned macaroni and cheese is a real treat, unlike the kind that comes in a box. Thomas Jefferson even served it in the White House.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Macaroni
• Butter
• Sharp cheese
• Salt
• Pepper
• Milk
• Casserole baking dish
• Aluminum foil

1. Boil desired amount of macaroni in a suitable sized pan until tender. Drain the macaroni and set it aside. If you prefer, you can first rinse it for less starchiness.
2. Cube or shred a sharp cheddar cheese until you have the necessary quantity. Slice butter to add to the cheese later.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an appropriate sized casserole baking dish for the amount of old-fashioned macaroni and cheese you're making.
4. Spoon in enough macaroni to cover the bottom of the prepared casserole baking dish. Top macaroni with half of the cheese, butter, salt and pepper.
5. Add remaining macaroni, then top with the rest of the cheese, butter, salt and pepper. Pour milk over the top.
6. Cover the casserole baking dish with foil. Put it in the oven to bake for 30 to 40 minutes. 15 minutes before the dish is done, remove the foil to brown and crisp the top of the casserole.

Tips & Warnings

• For added variety with the sharp cheddar cheese, mix one or two more cheeses into your recipe. To spice it up, add jalapeno peppers.
• Cut cubed cheese into uniform sized pieces so the dish cooks evenly.
• Top the macaroni and cheese with tomato slices or paprika for a garnish and bit of flavor. Or add bread crumbs for texture and crunch.